The film was released on September 26 in India.
Legendary filmmaker and executive producer Martin Scorsese recently hosted a special screening of 'Homebound' in New York, followed by an insightful Q&A session with the film’s director, Neeraj Ghaywan. After receiving a warm reception at its Cannes premiere, 'Homebound' has now been selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars in the Best International Film category.
Ahead of the screening, Martin posed for photos with the 'Homebound' team, including lead actors Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, who play best friends Shoaib and Chandan. The film, written and directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, is inspired by Basharat Peer’s 2020 New York Times article about two friends navigating life during the lockdown. Produced by Dharma Productions, the studio shared glimpses from the event, calling it “a night to remember” as the cast and crew celebrated the film’s journey surrounded by cinematic greats.
Indian American actor Kal Penn and filmmaker Mira Nair at the film's screening. (Photo courtesy: Dharma Productions)
Director Neeraj Ghaywan took to X (formerly Twitter) to reflect on what he called “the highest point” of his career, sharing how Scorsese put him at ease before their discussion. “Mr. Scorsese saw I was nervous and narrated a funny anecdote about being mistaken for the Hillside Strangler just to calm me down,” Neeraj revealed. “That’s the generous, selfless master that he is.”
The screening also saw attendance from South actor Siddharth and filmmaker Mira Nair, who came to support the film and its Oscar campaign. The film explores the lives of two friends, Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), as they navigate personal and societal challenges during the COVID-19 lockdown.
With its Cannes premiere and selection as India’s official entry for the Oscars in the Best International Film category, Homebound is being recognised as one of the most anticipated Indian films on the global stage.
